Javier Mascherano Rumors: Top Five Moves for the Liverpool Midfielder

It's no secret the Argentinian captain, Javier Mascherano, is one of the top transfer targets this summer.

For over a year now, there have been "talks" about Mascherano departing from Liverpool, but now the "talks" are turning into real possibilities.

After the World Cup, Mascherano was a bit quiet during the transfer period, but now the defensive midfielder is pleased to be wanted by the top clubs in the world.

After friendly talks with Liverpool manager, Roy Hodgson, Mascherano has been granted his wish to leave the Anfield Club if a team can accomodate his, and his current club's wishes.

A source close to Mascherano reportedly told ESPNsoccernet, "He was asked to stay on for one more year, he agreed, so now it is time for him to go. It was all very pleasant and it is now a question of the two clubs who are interested in him making an acceptable offer to Liverpool."

Right now, Mascherano is under contract until June 2010, so the teams who wish to sign him will have to find an agreement with Liverpool.

The asking price for Mascherano is reportedly marked at 25 million Euros, which means teams are going to have to match it in order for the Liverpool hierarchy to accept the transfer.

Until then, he still has one year left on his Liverpool contract, which means he is going to have to find a deal that is suitable for both teams, or he is remaining with Liverpool.

So, the question is, what are the best potential moves for the star midfielder?

4. Manchester City

Why not?

Roberto Mancini has already proven he is dedicated to challenging the top clubs in the world, as has brought in high-profile players to Manchester City like Yaya Toure, Jerome Boateng, David Silva, and Aleksandar Kolarov.

85 million Euros have been disposed all together for these players, which seems to be the best way to turn mediocre clubs into premier ones.

Mancini knows this, which is why it isn't too farfetched to say Mancini is looking for a defensive midfielder like Mascherano to add even more tremendous talent to his squad.

Just like Real Madrid, Manchester United, and FC Barcelona have done, Roberto Mancini and Manchester City are using their money to their advantage to create an all-star club that wins championships.

1. Inter Milan

The best club team in the world getting perhaps the best defensive midfielder in the world.

It's all gravy baby.

In so many ways, this deal is the best thing for the star midfielder who is searching for a new place to call home.

Mascherano's agent, Walter Tamer, said, "Think about it, the strongest team in the world wants him, a team where many of Mascherano's compatriots play, and a side that is guided by a coach with whom Mascherano has a personal bond."

Rafael Benitez, Liverpool's former manager, has maintained a positive relationship with Mascherano since his departure from Anfield.

Benitez was the manager of Liverpool at the time Barcelona offered big bucks for Mascherano, which Benitez swiftly turned down.

It is apparent Benitez is loyal to Mascherano, and is more than willing to acquire the defensive midfielder.

Reuniting with Benitez is very inticing to Mascherano, who wishes to play under his former manager, but this time in Milan.

Internazionale, affectionately called "Inter," hold the title as the current Champions League Winners, and are ready to add Mascherano to increase their chances of a repeat performance this year.

A bid of 25 million Euros could be all that is needed for this deal to work out, and would not only send Mascherano to play for his former beloved manager, but to play for a team where he would feel most comfortable.

His compatriots play for Internazionale, and the defensive schemes which are proven to be so effective, are perfect for Mascherano's defensive style of play.

It would be a match made in heaven for Inter Milan and Javier Mascherano.